Mourinho and Sneijder formed a potent partnership as Inter Milan secured domestic and Champions League success back in 2010.

Now Van Gaal has joined the debate by suggesting a move to the Premier League would be good for Sneijder, as it would also aid his plans with the Dutch national team ahead of next summer’s World Cup finals.

“Sneijder to Chelsea is just a rumour at the moment, but it would be much easier for me to keep an eye on his progress if he were to make the move to Chelsea,” stated Van Gaal.

“I could be at Chelsea within an hour from Netherlands and Mourinho is a friend of mine.”

Van Gaal went on to suggest Sneijder had reacted well to the decision to install Manchester United striker Robin van Persie as the new Dutch captain, with the deposed former skipper earning praise for his response to the decision.

“I had a good talk about it with Wesley and he’s dealing with the situation pretty well,” added Van Gaal. “I have no doubt that everybody will help him.”